West Newton/Rutland

I was a resident from 2012 to 2020. Location is the best amenity. However, there is no laundromat on-site or washer/dryer hookups in units. This community is a lifesaver for people with desperate cases who can't get housing elsewhere. That is a double-edged sword because concentrating difficult tenants in one place deteriorates the community no matter how great the buildings might look. Expect residents with loud music hanging on the front steps during the summer who don't care about disturbing... the peace of other neighbors, boom boom from cars passing by or stopping to visit a resident, and occasional gunshots and police activity. West Newton-Rutland is close to other problematic communities in the South End, so criminal activity in one community spreads to the other. In summary, apply if you have limited options, but get out of there as soon as you get on your feet. Read More

West Newton-Rutland Apartments was formerly a public housing community from the Boston Housing Authority and was sold to a private non-profit owner committed to maintaining the property as affordable in the long term. The property is under well-needed overdue renovation. Prime location ideal for people without a car, but at the expense of sacrificing other important aspects. There is no laundromat on-site, or inside the apartments, so you must go elsewhere. There are no elevators, and kitchens... are tiny. This specific pocket of the South End is well-known for high crime, so expect occasional gunshots and the police closing the street to retrieve ballistic evidence. There are many decent, hardworking residents, and there are others who are very problematic. This apartment complex is ideal for people desperate for housing. Rent in another place if you have more options. Read More

I have been living in public housing for over 20 years and they don't do anything to fix a deteriorating apartment. Not to mention it's not smoke free despite having signs everywhere. And the rodent problem is so bad, they have ruined so much of my furniture.